I was surprised at my new diagnosis. What are your thoughts?
A month ago I started a lung infection with light pains around chest and back, on and off. Had some light intermittent labored breathing that could last a few hours. I got light soreness throughout lungs for 2 days that went away. Walking I felt better, great hour mall walks. No fever. In a few days, began light sore throat, sinuses, ears. Doc put on antibiotic. All resolved in a few days, but was left with some mild chest pains and some light SOB. Better but not gone.I had cardio workup and there is no problem, my cardiac system is perfect. Then saw pulmonary doc who seemed to panic after the breathing into tube test. The oximeter was 97, so good. The tube test was about half of what it should be, he showed me a graph. He was freaking out saying hurriedly copd, emphysema, asthma. It's irreversible. Then said, well people can live with one lung. And he started me on Trelegy Elipta.He was getting me very worried.
The doc calmed down a bit and was more about the problem being asthma than copd given that I quit smoking so long ago. I am 72 and quit smoking in 1980 (15 years, 2 packs).I am from a smoking family and no one has lung problems. Yes, we were pretty stupid.I have reactive airway syndrome likely from exposure to cement dust when laying tile without ventilation about 35 years ago. Nothing worsened over time, I cough on and off daily, it is in the larynx. Cough is triggered by perfume, cold air, lying down, etc., and I adjust in a few minutes. Usually light but can be hacking, and brief. Now given the breathing test it seems possible it may have involved also the bronchial area, and I had bad bronchitis 5 years ago for a good month. When this doctor did the breathing test, I had just sat in his waiting room for 45 minutes, packed with people with perfume, coughing most of that time. So I would think that the test may be exaggerated from that big trigger.
I return in a week for a follow-up test after being on the Trelegy Elipta inhaler for a week. That has caused a few light chest pains and coughs, but mostly seems fine. I hate taking a drug for life, I have no other drugs.I’d rather take something if I get SOB again with a lung infection if that should happen. Where is this likely to take me? Your thoughts are most welcome.
Hi netmouse and thanks for sharing your extensive medical history with the community here at COPD.net. You may be aware we cannot provide medical advice or diagnostics over the internet (for your own safety), however your genuine concerns certainly warrant a reply.
You've mentioned any number of diagnostic testing results, as well as a variety of symptoms, and even a lung infection without fever. It was striking to hear the doctor, as you described, exhibited panic, 'freaking out', and then 'calming down'. However, when all was said and done, you have been placed on a trial of Trelegy and are scheduled to be evaluated after a week's time. I would suggest you follow up with that appointment with the pulmonologist, and then see what his assessment is of your condition at that time.
I would then hope you can check back and let us know how it all turned out. What do you think?
Leon (site moderator)
Hi netmouse - thanks for sharing that experience with the community. You've been through a lot in a short time it sounds like. I certainly understand your hesitation in not wanting to take a medication for the rest of your life. But, sometimes we do those things because it's the best thing to do. You're very young and have a lot of life left that I'm sure you'd like to continue to enjoy.
As Leon said, follow up with the pulmonologist and what he/she says. He'll be the best person to help you decide how you're going to go forward and what treatment is right for you.
Best, Lyn (site moderator)Not helpful. I'm looking for a forum where patients share stories and info. I think I've found that elsewhere.
I'm sorry to hear we weren't helpful to you, net mouse. However, if you look through the site I think you'll see plenty of patient stories and participation. It's actually very active with people with COPD helping one another.
-Lyn (site moderator)Hi again, netmouse, and thanks for your response. As Lyn said, I too am sorry you did not find this to be helpful. You may find more of what you're looking for on our COPD Facebook page. (You will find the link at the bottom of this page). There you will find a large group of community members interacting on a current basis about all things related to COPD, as well as sharing their own personal stories. That, based on what you've said, seems to be what you're looking for.
Good luck!
Leon (site moderator)
